Cinco De Mayo
By Shanon Searls
Cinco De Mayo is widely celebrated and commemorates the victory of the Mexican Army against the French on May 5th, 1862.
Initially becoming popular thanks to promotions by US liquor and beer companies in the 1980’s, some mistake this fun holiday as Mexican Independence Day (which is actually September 16th). However, no matter where you might be celebrating, Cinco De Mayo is a great day to gather with friends and family and enjoy Mexican cuisine and libations!
History Lesson - Cinco De Mayo
Although May 5th is not a national holiday in Mexico, it's an official holiday in Puebla, where the actual battle occurred. This was a violent and chaotic period in Mexico's history after gaining independence from Spain in 1821.
During this period, Mexico had accumulated massive debt to several nations. In 1861, Benito Juarez was elected president of Mexico, and in response, France, Britain, and Spain sent naval forces to Veracruz demanding their repayment. Although Spain and Britain negotiated with Mexico and withdrew forces, France was ruled by Napoleon III, who used this as an opportunity to take over Mexico.
In late 1861, a well-manned French army stormed Veracruz, driving President Juarez and his command into withdrawal. The battle was essentially fought between 6,000 French troops and an unkempt force of 2,000 of Juarez's men who were poorly supplied and outnumbered. Regardless, the battle lasted from daybreak to evening, and the French eventually retreated, having lost nearly 500 soldiers while fewer than 100 Mexicans were killed.
Although this isn't known as a major strategic win, the Battle of Puebla on May 5th represented a symbolic victory for the Mexican government.
The majority of Cinco De Mayo traditions are celebrated by Mexican-American populations, though the holiday is also celebrated worldwide.
The United States celebrates Mexican culture and heritage with parades, parties, Mexican folk dancing, mariachi music, decorations, and traditional food such as tacos, enchiladas, tortilla chips, and salsa!
Now that you know what you are celebrating, here's a guide on where to observe this holiday!
Los Cabos Cinco de Mayo Celebrations
San Jose Del Cabo Art Walk
This popular weekly event is held every Thursday evening from 5 to 9 PM from October through June. The Art walk was created by the Gallery District Association, allowing tourists and locals to explore the colorful and artistic filled streets of San Jose Del Cabo. The main street is shut off from vehicles, allowing everyone to walk and enjoy an evening stroll through the area while they visit art galleries and enjoy wine and cuisine from local restaurants. This is a great way to kick-off May 5 celebrations!
Cabo San Lucas - Cinco de Mayo Bar Hopping
What better way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo than by enjoying drinks in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico?!
Latitude 22 – this fun bar features a Los Cabos history lesson. It's decorated with old photos of fishing contests and gigantic catches. The walls are also adorned with life preservers from old vessels, giving it an old-time nautical ambiance and celebrating what Los Cabos is known for - deep-sea fishing! Offering incredible views of Land's End, take a seat at the bar or choose an old-fashioned booth where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Baja Brewing Company—Baja California Sur's first brewery features an amazing view of Land's End from Medano Beach. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in style with a delicious breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with menu options ranging from hamburgers to filet mignon. Don't forget to grab one of their delicious beers on tap. We suggest ordering a flight so you can try them all!
Slims Elbow Room – as you can tell by the name, this fun little dive is known as the "world's smallest bar." There are only four seats at the bar and two standing-room spots at the front window. Enjoy country music and a shot of tequila while you tell your friends what you learned about Cinco de Mayo. Due to limited space, we usually just grab a drink and take a photo before heading out to the next stop!
Cabo Wabo Cantina —One of Cabo's most famous bars, Cabo Wabo Cantina has been around for 20 years and has a Rock-n-Rock pedigree, originally started by Sammy Hagar. Stop by and enjoy live music, food, and drinks. There's also a patio where you can enjoy burgers and cocktails. In honor of the holiday, we suggest a traditional margarita!
Basically, any popular tourist destination in Mexico will have a party taking place somewhere, from Tulum and Cancun to Puerto Vallarta. If you're there, join in the fun!
Hawaii Celebrations
Honolulu Block Party
If you are on Oahu, you'll find plenty of bars and Mexican restaurants in the Cinco De Mayo spirit.
Local Mexican restaurants will feature seasonal specialties, DJs, and dancing. There is also sometimes a block party that takes place downtown and in historic Chinatown.
